Step-by-step guide: Screen enclosure cleaning made easy

Try these tips for cleaning your lanai like a pro

In Central Florida, many homeowners install a screen enclosure (or lanai) in their yard surrounding the pool or patio. Your screen enclosure protects your patio space from bugs and debris. Since lanais are outdoor installations, they are exposed to dust and harsh weather conditions and should be cleaned occasionally.

Maintenance is simple and can be done using household products. Regular screen enclosure cleaning is necessary to eliminate mold, dirt, grime, and pollen accumulation to offer clear outdoor views. To prevent a nasty buildup of greenish-yellow film from debris, pollen & algae, we recommend cleaning your screen enclosure bi-annually or as needed.

Knowing how to care for your lanai correctly will ensure a longer frame and screen life. You can clean like a pro with our simple and effective cleaning method. Keep scrolling to learn how to clean your screen enclosure in four easy steps.

Screen enclosure cleaning in four easy steps

The supplies you’ll need include: a leaf blower, dish soap, warm water, a soft bristle brush, an extension pole (for scrubbing overhead), and a garden hose (preferably with a nozzle). 

Follow the steps below:

Step #1: Blow off loose debris

Before scrubbing, use a leaf blower to remove all the loose debris such as leaves and dirt. 

Step #2: Pre-wet the screen

Then, get the screens wet with your hose. For this method use a warm water and dish soap mixture. 

Step #3: Brush with soap

Scrub the screen and allow the soapy mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes. 

Step #4: Rinse and air dry

Rinse well and allow the screens to air dry. Repeat the process if necessary! 

If stains and grime persist, try our powerful cleaning method for eliminating stubborn grime and algae buildup. Keep scrolling to learn how to eliminate stubborn buildup in six simple steps. 

Eliminating buildup and mold in six easy steps

One of the most convenient methods of screen enclosure cleaning is using a pressure washer, but be sure to use caution! DO NOT apply pressure onto the seams (where the screen meets the frame-railing). Hitting the seams with constant pressure will damage your screen. It’s best to avoid using the highest setting.

The supplies you’ll need include: a pressure washer, warm water, bleach or vinegar, nitrile gloves, a bristle brush, an extension pole (for scrubbing overhead), and a garden hose (preferably with a nozzle). 

Step #1: Water vegetation around the screen enclosure

Before you start cleaning make sure to saturate all nearby vegetation (plants, grass, and trees) with your garden hose nozzle to protect the vegetation from cleaning solution. 

Step #2: Mix vinegar or bleach solution

Mix vinegar and hot water at a 1:1 ratio or bleach and water into a bucket at a 1:3 ratio. The bleach solution should only be used for persistent spots as it can be harsher and cause discoloration. If using bleach be sure you are wearing gloves to protect your hands.

Step #3: Brush the screen with the solution

After applying your solution you will want to let your solution sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. DO NOT let your solution dry – this could cause discoloration. 

Step #4: Carefully powerwash

Powerwash the screen at a medium pressure setting carefully avoiding the seams. Rinse the lanai thoroughly and let it air dry.

Step #5: Rinse and dry

Step #6: Water the vegetation around the screen

Water the vegetation again to rinse any chemicals and avoid contamination.

Learn more:
Four tips on how to prevent screen enclosure damage

Looking to repair, replace, or install a screen enclosure?

At Moreno & Moreno, we use only the highest quality materials to give you the best protection for your home.

Our screens are constructed with the following: 

-Fiberglass screening material – flexible, dent and crease-proof, and noncombustible, making it perfect for using your grill without worry.

-An aluminum frame – which requires NO maintenance.

-Self-closing and latching doors – for convenience and security.

-Many screen enclosure installations in Central Florida can be completed on the same day. 

Interested in our Orlando screen enclosure services?
To book your free estimate, contact us via the website or call us at 407.300.4500.